In today’s digital age, streaming services such as Netflix, Hulu, BBC Player, and Disney+ offer viewers a seemingly endless supply of movies, TV shows, and sports from around the globe. However, one of the biggest frustrations when using these services abroad is geo-blocking. These platforms restrict access to content based on your geographical location, limiting what you can watch depending on where you are. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll discuss the best VPNs for streaming outside the US, why you need one, how to choose the right provider, and all the essential features to look for when deciding on a VPN that will allow you to stream without limits.
Why Do You Need a VPN for Streaming Outside the US?
Geo-restrictions are the main obstacle for many people who want to watch their favorite shows, movies, or sports from platforms like Netflix, Hulu, BBC Player, and Disney+ when they are traveling abroad. These restrictions are in place due to licensing agreements, territorial rights, and other factors that limit access to content depending on the user’s location.
When you access streaming services, your IP address reveals your physical location. This is how these platforms determine which content is available to you. For instance, Netflix offers different libraries depending on the country you are in, meaning that the shows or movies available in the US are not accessible from abroad.
How Does a VPN Work for Streaming?
A Virtual Private Network(VPN) for streaming works by rerouting your internet traffic through a server located in another country. When you connect to a US server, your device will adopt a US IP address, making it appear as though you are browsing from the US. This allows you to bypass geo-blocks and access streaming platforms as though you were back home, enabling you to watch content like Netflix US, Hulu, BBC Player, and others without restrictions.
Beyond unblocking content, a VPN also offers enhanced privacy and security by encrypting your internet connection. This encryption prevents third parties, such as hackers, ISPs, and even government agencies, from tracking your online activity. This is especially important when accessing sensitive data or when using public Wi-Fi networks.
Key Features of the Best VPN for Streaming
When choosing the best VPN for streaming outside the US, it’s important to consider several key features that will ensure you have a smooth and enjoyable streaming experience. Here’s a breakdown of the most critical features you should look for:
Fast Connection Speeds
Streaming in HD, 4K, or Ultra HD requires a fast and stable internet connection. VPNs inherently slow down your connection because they encrypt and route your traffic through remote servers. However, the best VPNs for streaming offer high-speed connections that minimize this impact, allowing you to stream content without buffering or lagging.
Key Metric: Look for a VPN that maintains speeds of at least 25 Mbps for HD content and 50 Mbps or higher for 4K streaming.
Server Locations in Multiple Countries
To access geo-blocked content from different regions, you’ll need a VPN that offers servers in multiple countries. The more server locations a VPN has, the more options you have for unblocking streaming services from around the world. For example, if you want to watch UK-based content like BBC Player or ITVX, make sure the VPN has servers in the UK.
Key Metric: The best VPNs for streaming will have servers in dozens of countries to give you access to global content.
High Security and Privacy Features
A VPN is not just about unblocking content—it’s also about protecting your privacy and securing your data. 256-bit AES encryption ensures that your internet traffic is secure, while features like a kill switch (which disconnects you from the internet if the VPN connection drops) prevent potential leaks. A no-logs policy guarantees that your online activity isn’t tracked or stored, which is vital for maintaining privacy.
Key Metric: Choose a VPN with no-logging policies and strong encryption standards, ideally AES-256.
Ability to Unblock Popular Streaming Platforms
Not all VPNs can bypass the stringent VPN-detection technologies used by platforms like Netflix, Hulu, BBC Player, and Disney+. Ensure the VPN you select is capable of unblocking these popular streaming services, especially the ones you use most frequently. Some VPN providers regularly update their server configurations to evade detection, which is essential for accessing platforms without interruptions.
Key Metric: Test the VPN’s ability to unblock streaming services like Netflix, BBC Player, Hulu, and others.
Easy-to-Use Interface
A good VPN for streaming should have a user-friendly interface. Even if you are not tech-savvy, you should be able to set up and use the VPN with ease. Choose a provider that offers apps for a variety of platforms, including Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, and smart TVs, to ensure you can stream from any device.
Key Metric: Look for a VPN with simple, one-click connection options and easy-to-install apps.
However, if you are using the free VPNs in 2025, here’s the shocking truth: while they may seem appealing, they often come with limitations such as slower speeds, restricted server locations, and potential security risks. So, its important to use a paid VPN according to your needs.
Top VPNs for Streaming Outside the US
After evaluating several key features, we’ve compiled a list of the best VPNs for streaming outside the US. These providers excel at unblocking popular streaming platforms, maintaining fast speeds, and ensuring your privacy online.
Related: Best VPN for France in 2025: Stay Secure and Browse Freely
1. NordVPN: Best for UK Content Streaming Outside the US
NordVPN is one of the best VPN providers when it comes to streaming. With over 5,500 servers in 59 countries, it offers excellent speeds and reliability, especially for accessing UK-based content like BBC iPlayer and ITVX. NordVPN’s NordLynx protocol is optimized for speed, ensuring fast connections for high-definition streaming without buffering.
Key Features:
- Fast Speeds: Excellent for streaming 4K content.
- Security: Provides top-notch 256-bit AES encryption, a no-logs policy, and DNS leak protection.
- Server Locations: 5,500+ servers in 59 countries, including many in the US and UK.
Best For: Unblocking UK TV content such as BBC Player and ITVX.
2. ExpressVPN: Best for Global Streaming Access
ExpressVPN is another top contender for streaming VPNs due to its ability to unblock almost any streaming platform, including Netflix US, BBC Player, and Hulu. With over 3,000 servers in 94 countries, ExpressVPN ensures access to a global library of content while maintaining fast and reliable speeds.
Key Features:
- Speed: Offers lightning-fast connections for smooth streaming.
- Security: Uses 256-bit encryption, has a no-logs policy, and includes a kill switch feature.
- Server Locations: 3,000+ servers in 94 countries.
Best For: Accessing US Netflix and other geo-restricted streaming services.
3. Surf Shark: Best Affordable VPN for Streaming Outside the US
If you’re looking for an affordable option, Surf Shark is an excellent choice. Offering over 3,200 servers in 100+ countries, Surf Shark allows you to unblock a wide variety of streaming platforms. It provides great speeds for HD and 4K streaming and is perfect for users on a budget who still want great performance and security.
Key Features:
- Affordable Pricing: Best value for money.
- Security: strong AES-256 encryption, multichip for added privacy, and no-logs policy.
- Server Locations: 3,200+ servers in 100+ countries.
Best For: Streaming Netflix, ITVX, and Hulu at an affordable price.
4. Cyber Ghost: Best VPN for Streaming Variety
Cyber Ghost is known for its specialized servers for streaming, offering optimized servers for specific services like Netflix US, BBC Player, Amazon Prime Video, and more. With over 7,000 servers in 90 countries, Cyber Ghost allows you to access a wide range of international content.
Key Features:
- Fast Streaming Speeds: Ideal for streaming in HD and 4K.
- Security: Provides 256-bit encryption, a no-logs policy, and DNS leak protection.
- Server Locations: 7,000+ servers in 90 countries.
Best For: Unblocking Netflix, Amazon Prime, and BBC Player.
5. PrivateVPN: Best for Niche Platforms
While PrivateVPN has fewer servers (about 200 in 63 countries), it is highly effective at unblocking niche streaming platforms like BBC Player, ITVX, and Channel 4. It’s an excellent choice for users who need access to UK TV and are looking for a more affordable option.
Key Features:
- Streaming Focused: Specialized servers for UK content.
- Security: Offers 256-bit AES encryption and a no-logs policy.
- Server Locations: 200+ servers in 63 countries.
Best For: Accessing BBC Player and ITVX outside the UK.
How to Choose the Best VPN for Streaming Outside the US
When choosing a VPN for streaming outside the US, it’s crucial to consider factors such as server locations, speed, security, and the ability to unblock popular streaming platforms. A good VPN should offer:
- Compatibility with streaming services like Netflix, BBC iPlayer, and Hulu.
- Fast connection speeds to prevent buffering or lag during streaming.
- Security features like 256-bit encryption and a no-logs policy to protect your privacy.
- Server locations in countries that grant access to global streaming content.
FAQs: Best VPN for Streaming Outside the US
Can I use a free VPN to stream content outside the US?
While there are free VPNs available, they generally lack the speed, security, and reliability required for high-quality streaming. Free VPNs often have limited server locations, and slower speeds, and may compromise your privacy by logging your data. It’s recommended to use a paid VPN like NordVPN or ExpressVPN for a seamless streaming experience.
Do I need a VPN to watch Netflix outside the US?
Yes, if you want to access US Netflix content from outside the US, you’ll need a VPN. By connecting to a US-based server, the VPN will make it appear as though you're accessing Netflix from the United States, giving you access to the full US library.
What streaming services can a VPN unblock?
A VPN can unblock many popular streaming services such as Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Hulu, Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, and ITVX, as long as the VPN has servers in the required countries. For example, to access UK-based platforms like BBC iPlayer, you’ll need a VPN with servers in the UK.
Is streaming with a VPN legal?
Using a VPN for streaming is legal in most countries. However, some streaming platforms may have terms of service that prohibit VPN use. It’s always advisable to check the platform’s terms to ensure you’re complying with their rules.
Will a VPN slow down my internet speed when streaming?
Yes, using a VPN can slightly reduce your internet speed because your data is being routed through an additional server. However, top VPN services like NordVPN and ExpressVPN are optimized for minimal speed reduction, ensuring a smooth streaming experience.
Conclusion
With a VPN for streaming, you can finally access the global content library of platforms like Netflix, BBC Player, and Hulu without restrictions. By using a premium VPN service like NordVPN, ExpressVPN, or Surf Shark, you can unlock geo-blocked content from any corner of the world, all while maintaining your privacy and security. Choose wisely based on your needs—whether it’s fast streaming, multiple server locations, or affordability—and enjoy unrestricted access to your favorite shows and movies. You can also go through this list of the top 10 best VPN services and find the one that suits your needs.